The race for California’s governorship is heating up as former Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) faces scrutiny following the release of several videos that have drawn significant criticism. Her opponents, along with some fellow Democrats, have reprimanded her for attempting to cut an interview short when confronted with challenging questions.
A video obtained by sources depicts a moment from 2021 when Porter sharply criticized staffers who appeared during a video shoot alongside then-Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, also a Democrat. This incident has reignited criticism against her just months ahead of California’s primary election, where polls had shown her leading in the race to replace Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom.
“Voters are generally forgiving, but they expect a candidate to own up to their mistakes and acknowledge any missteps,” stated Darry Slagow, a Democratic strategist with years of experience.
In a recent interview aired on CBS News, Porter was questioned about how she plans to win over the approximately 40% of Californians who voted for Donald Trump. She responded by asking what it would take to succeed.
“Can’t you aim for 60%? Surely everyone who didn’t support Trump will back you?” the reporter, Julie Watts, pressed. “In the general election? Absolutely. I believe we can win over those who didn’t vote for Trump,” Porter replied confidently.
However, when asked about the possibility of running against another Democrat, she seemed to be caught off guard and said, “That wasn’t my intention.” Attempting to clarify, she noted that her campaign already enjoys name recognition and support, highlighting her experience in mixed districts.
As the interview continued, tension rose when Watts referenced Porter’s earlier stance that she didn’t need Trump voters to clinch the governorship. “No, I’m saying I’ll pursue every vote I can,” she tried to clarify, but then indicated a desire to wrap up the discussion.
After this exchange, a member of her campaign indicated that Porter continued the interview for an additional 20 minutes and later spoke with CBS News’ Major Garrett.
In a separate incident captured on video, Porter was seen telling a staff member, “Get out of my f—— shot!” during a filming with Granholm. The staff claimed they wanted to address her comments from that footage.
Many of her challengers have seized this moment to criticize her, with at least one Democrat calling for her resignation. While some fellow party members voiced their disapproval on social media, others, including union leaders, defended her.
In a statement regarding the 2021 video, Porter remarked on the high standards she maintains for herself and her staff, expressing a commitment to be more appreciative of their contributions.
Polls taken before these recent controversies indicated that Porter was an early frontrunner, although the candidate field remains unsettled. One poll from Emerson College placed her at 18%, ahead of Republican Steve Hilton at 12%. Another poll from Berkeley IGS showed Porter at 17%, with her nearest rival at 10%.
Despite the backlash, some Democrats believe the incident could hurt her campaign. “Seeing that CBS video struck me as odd, especially given the mundane nature of the question,” remarked Doug Herman, a Los Angeles-based strategist. “It’s surprising that she diverted from a straightforward topic.”
Porter’s campaign, however, insists that she embodies the fighting spirit required in these times. A spokesman emphasized that Californians desire a governor who will stand against Trump’s policies, arguing that Porter has a strong track record of holding powerful interests accountable.
Although some strategists recognize her actions as unprofessional, they acknowledge that such flare-ups can happen in high-pressure environments. Jim Ross, a strategist who previously advised Newsom, indicated that the issue might be overstated, suggesting that competition intensifies when someone is leading in the race.
Elizabeth Ashford, an advisor to notable California figures, remarked that the dynamics of the race are still evolving. She pointed out, however, that it remains to be seen if this incident might cause supporters to withdraw their backing. Public perception of Porter’s interactions could vary significantly in this political climate.
“Depending on how individuals interpret her actions, this could be a deal breaker for some,” Ashford observed. “Others might admire her toughness.”
